Renowned actress Penelope Milford, best known for her Oscar-nominated role in the 1978 film Coming Home, has died at the age of 77. Milford passed away on Tuesday in Saugerties, New York, as confirmed by her brother Doug Milford. While the cause of death has not been disclosed, her passing marks the end of a vibrant career that spanned both stage and screen.
Milford’s portrayal of Vi Munson in the Hal Ashby-directed Coming Home earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. The film, set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War, explores themes of love and loss through the eyes of a woman, played by Jane Fonda, who falls for a paralyzed veteran, portrayed by Jon Voight. Milford’s character, Vi, is the sister of a troubled Vietnam veteran, adding depth to the film’s exploration of the war’s emotional toll.
From Broadway to Hollywood
Before her breakout role in Coming Home, Milford was already making waves in the theater world. In 1974, she originated the role of Jenny Anderson in the Broadway musical Shenandoah, a performance that earned her a Drama Desk Award nomination. The musical, adapted from a 1965 film starring Jimmy Stewart, tells the story of a Virginia farmer’s struggle to remain neutral during the Civil War.
Milford’s stage career began in New York in 1971, where she performed alongside Richard Gere in the Off-Broadway production Long Time Coming And A Long Time Gone. Her Broadway debut came a year later in Lenny, a play about the life of comedian Lenny Bruce. The production was a critical success, with lead actor Cliff Gorman winning both a Tony Award and a Drama Desk Award.
Film and Television Success
Milford’s film career began with a role in Norman Mailer’s 1970 film Maidstone, known for its avant-garde style. She continued to diversify her portfolio with roles in the biopic Valentino and the cult classic Heathers. Her television work in the 1980s included The Oldest Living Graduate and Seizure: The Story Of Kathy Morris, both of which showcased her versatility as an actress.
Despite her success, Milford reportedly grew disenchanted with acting toward the end of the decade. She shifted her focus to teaching film acting in Chicago and Minneapolis, sharing her wealth of experience with aspiring actors.
Legacy and Later Years
In 2003, Milford moved to Saugerties, New York, where she embraced her role as a community preservationist. She continued to engage with the arts by performing at local theaters, singing with the Bard Symphonic Chorus, and participating in the Woodstock Christian Science Church.
Milford’s contributions to both stage and screen have left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. Her ability to breathe life into complex characters earned her critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. As the world remembers Penelope Milford, her legacy as a talented and passionate actress endures.
Her passing is a reminder of the profound impact she had on the arts, both as a performer and as a mentor to the next generation of actors. As tributes pour in from colleagues and fans alike, Milford’s influence continues to resonate, ensuring that her work will be celebrated for years to come.
